In 1964, Barry Goldwater was about to accept the Republican presidential nomination. Reporters covering the convention were curious how the firebrand Senator from Arizona would present himself to the electorate. They were convinced that Goldwater would have to file off the rough edges and trim his positions to appeal to the moderate middle of American politics.

Upon hearing his acceptance speech, where Goldwater punctured the prevailing liberalism, reporters were astonished that Goldwater had made no compromises. Supposedly, one wag gasped, “My God, he’s going to run as Goldwater!” One of the architects of modern conservatism went on to a historic defeat at the hands of incumbent Lyndon Johnson.

U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz (R-TX) made it official Monday, becoming the first Republican to declare for the presidency. As he argued for a flat tax, to abolish the IRS, and repeal every word of Obamacare, I could only think, “My God, he’s going to run as Ted Cruz!”

Cruz’s announcement was met with excitement in some quarters and severe skepticism in others. Cruz gives the Republican base the red meat they crave. His policy preferences, according to this analysis by FiveThirtyEight.com, are collectively to the right of every major Republican figure and nominee of the past several decades. Charles C.W. Cooke is convinced that Cruz’s style is too abrasive, too pointed, and too pedantic to secure the nomination.

Cruz’s supporters paint, naturally, a brighter picture. At his best, the Texan could take seemingly disparate wings (evangelicals and the anti-establishment Tea Party supporters) of the GOP and weld them into a force. Cruz, they say, is willing to crack a few eggs, just like Reagan, who was also not loved by the Republican establishment. And, like Cruz, Reagan was to the right of his rivals, seemingly too conservative to win moderates, but he showed it was possible. In his quest, Reagan reformed the Republican Party and inspired a generation of activists. Cruz hopes to do the same.

So, what are Cruz’s chances? Cruz is no Reagan, either in experience or temperament. Reagan was a two term governor before becoming President. Cruz is a first term Senator. Reagan could point to a list of accomplishments in office. Cruz can point to some strong positions and media attention generated through a filibuster. Reagan had a light touch and could sell his conservatism with a smile. Cruz struggles in comparison.

Cruz is a brilliant man. He was a successful lawyer before jumping fully into politics, arguing many times before the U.S. Supreme Court. He is an expert in constitutional law and appears to have well-defined principles he can articulate clearly. These are great strengths. But are they enough?

No matter his talents, Cruz is still lightly qualified for the nation’s highest office. His foreign policy credentials are minimal and his political accomplishments are more rhetorical than actual. If he overcomes those obstacles to secure the Republican nomination, it will be a testament to his skills.

The race is on.